EARLY SEASON PRIVATE STEAM WORKING TO MALLAIG
Published at 12:08 on Monday 11th February 2019
Tags: LMS Black 5, LSL, Locomotive Services Ltd, Private Charter, Charter Workings, Main Line Steam
LMS 'Black 5' 4-6-0 No. 45231 'The Sherwood Forester' is pictured near Lazonby on the Settle & Carlisle line on 3rd October 2015. Fresh from its recent overhaul, the locomotive will take the helm of a private LSL charter working to Fort William and Mallaig on 15th February. Gregory Fitchett
Locomotive Services Limited are to operate a private charter to the West Highlands this coming weekend, bringing a rare early season steam working to the line.
The charter working will depart from Crewe on 15th February, formed of the Saphos Trains Crimson & Cream liveried coaching stock, running north to Carlisle, then over Beattock to Carstairs and Mossend. From Mossend, steam traction will take over from the Class 47s, for the final leg of the trip over the West Highland Line to Fort William. It is believed that at least one of the '47s' will remain on the back of the train for shunt release purposes at Fort William.
On the Saturday, the 'Black 5' will venture over the West Highland Extension, taking the train through to Mallaig and back to Fort William, before returning the trip to Mossend on the Sunday morning. The LSL Class 47s will then work the train back along the West Coast Main Line to Crewe. Details of the individual days workings appear in our Railtour Listings.
Railway Herald understands that contrary to various rumours currently circulating, the trip is a one-off special working for LSL-owner, Jeremy Hosking.
